Uzbekistan introduces education opportunities for women serving prison sentences

Speaking at a festive event held at the Kuksaroy residence, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said that women currently serving sentences in correctional institutions will be able to apply for higher education and pursue their studies through distance learning.

According to the president, many female inmates in the country’s penal institutions have only secondary education and lack a profession or vocational skills. Some of them have expressed interest in continuing their studies at higher education institutions.

To address this issue, authorities plan to launch the “New Life” program, which will focus on targeted support for women in correctional facilities.

Under the program, participants will first undergo vocational training courses lasting 3–6 months. After completing the courses, they will receive professional certificates intended to help them find employment after release.

Women who wish to pursue higher education will be able to take university entrance examinations directly within correctional facilities.

Those admitted to universities on a contract basis will be eligible for interest-free loans to cover tuition fees. The loans will be provided with the condition that repayment will begin after the individual completes their sentence and secures employment.

Officials say the initiative is intended to improve rehabilitation opportunities and help women reintegrate into society after serving their sentences.